Mother of injured football player says her faith keeps her hopeful

NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – The mother of injured TSU football player Christion Abercrombie says she’s optimistic about his recovery because of her faith.

Christion Abercrombie

Staci Abercrombie spoke at a press conference on Oct. 3 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where her son, Christion Abercrombie, is being treated. The linebacker suffered a head injury in the Tennessee State-Vanderbilt game on Sept. 29 and remains in critical condition.

“We’re expecting a miracle,” said Staci Abercrombie, who appeared on ‘The Today Show’ the next morning. “Each day is a battle. But he’s a strong young man. He’s fighting. We just have to continue to pray.”

Also at the press conference was Christion’s father, Derrick Abercrombie, several family members, and TSU officials: President Glenda Glover, Athletics Director Teresa Phillips, and head football Coach Rod Reed.

One of Christion’s doctors, Reid Thompson, professor and chair of neurological surgery at VUMC, also attended the press conference and told Staci Abercrombie and her family that “you inspire us,” referring to their strong faith.

The night before, the TSU Family held a prayer vigil for Christion. Those gathered in the Courtyard outside the university’s student center held hands as Dr. Joseph W. Walker, III, a pastor and chairman of TSU’s Board of Trustees, led them in prayer.

President Glover asked for continued prayer for the student-athlete and his family.

With more than 8,000 students, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a comprehensive, urban, co-educational, land-grant university offering 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs and seven doctoral degrees. TSU has earned a top 20 ranking for Historically Black Colleges and Universities according to U.S. News and World Report, and rated as one of the top universities in the country by Washington Monthly for social mobility, research and community service. Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University celebrated 100 years in Nashville during 2012. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.